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Psychology and Counselling

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A picture to illustrate studying undergraduate psychology at The Open University

We’re all interested in what makes us who and what we are; how we think, act and interact with others. That’s why  psychology – the science of human mind and behaviour – and counselling are interesting in their own right.

They can also help develop a range of widely applicable transferable skills. Studying psychology with the OU will enable you to gain an understanding of ideas, theories and methods in psychology, learn how to analyse and evaluate psychological concepts, and develop skills in assessing and using different kinds of evidence. It is also an applied science with relevance to many social and global issues.

You can also study theoretical perspectives in counselling, either as part of your psychology study or combined with courses from other providers to become a professional counsellor. You can use the knowledge and skills you develop as an OU psychology and counselling student or graduate to take advantage of exciting and challenging job opportunities in areas such as education, industry, the health professions, management, advertising and marketing, human resources, research, counselling, and social services.

Degrees

  • Combined Social Sciences
    Develop a rich synthesis of knowledge and skills drawn from the breadth of social sciences subjects: criminology; economics; geography; politics; psychology; sociology; and social policy.
  • Computing & IT and a second subject
    With this flexible joint honours degree specialise in computing & IT and combine it with a second subject: business, design, mathematics, psychology or statistics.
  • Criminology and Psychological Studies
    Our society is fascinated by crime and punishment. This degree will help you understand the issues behind the headlines.
  • Philosophy and Psychological Studies
    Explore concepts, theories, methods and debates in philosophy and psychology, relevant to a broad range of careers, including advertising and marketing, social services, administration and management.
  • Psychology
    Gain fascinating insights into the workings of the mind along with skills valued across a broad range of careers from this professionally accredited degree.
  • Open degree
    The BA/BSc Open Degree is a qualification that gives you a huge choice in terms of subjects and modules that you study to make up your degree.

Foundation Degrees

  • Counselling
    This qualification will prepare you to become a professional counsellor, equipping you with the theoretical understanding and practical skills required to work in this field.

Certificates of Higher Education

Not sure if you’re ready? Try a short introductory Openings course

If you would like to try Open University study before you commit to a qualification, our Openings courses could be the right place for you to start. These introductory-level courses have been specially designed to help you find out what it’s like to study with the OU, get a taste of a subject area, develop your study skills, and build your confidence. There is also financial support available for these courses. Read more about our Openings courses.

Study a module as a standalone course

You can study a single module on its own for personal interest or to improve your career prospects. See the list of all our individual courses in Psychology and Counselling.

Postgraduate options

If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Psychology and Counselling

Our 2012 Guides to OU Study are out now!
Everything you need to know about the OU and an introduction to our degree courses.

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